What would you suggest as possible professional development models or scaffolding needed for teachers to create the self-directed and collaborative learning experiences when using technology for students?




(The HTML version of the information below, coupled with graphics, is available at
http://ictconnection.edumall.sg/cos/o.x?c=/ictconnection/pagetree&func=view&rid=744)

Understanding the Goals
For Teachers
To promote self-directed learning, teachers will establish or provide:
1. Student-Teacher Learning Partnership
- Negotiate and develop a learning contract with the student for goals, strategies and evaluation criteria

2. Conditions for Students’ Self-management and Monitoring of their Learning
- Scaffold self-directed learning processes to shift responsibility for learning from teacher to students, i.e. allow for:
Self-management of learning through analysis, inquiry, expression of differing and conflicting views and decision making in an emotionally safe environment
Self-monitoring and reflection on their own thinking and learning processes

3. Experiences for Extension of Students’ Learning
- Broaden and deepen students’ learning
- Challenge students to reach a new level of thinking


To promote collaborative learning, teachers will establish or provide:
1. Structures for Collaboration among Students
- Create multiple and appropriate platforms and networks to generate and promote collaboration among students

2. Structures for Effective Group Processes
- Develop students’ communication skills and interpersonal skills
- Provide conflict management strategies on resolving diverse or conflicting views

3. Assessment of Individual and Group Learning
- Use various assessment methods to assess both individuals and group learning and performance
- Provide feedback on individual learning and group learning and performance